Thu Mar 06 18:08:38 UTC 2025: ## Canada Pulls US Alcohol From Shelves in Escalating Trade War

**Toronto, ON** – Trade tensions between Canada and the United States have reached a new boiling point, with several Canadian provinces enacting retaliatory measures against US tariffs by removing American-made alcohol from their shelves. This dramatic escalation follows the Trump administration’s imposition of 25% tariffs on Canadian goods.

The Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO), one of the world’s largest alcohol buyers, led the charge, pulling all US-made spirits, wine, and beer from its shelves Tuesday. This move affects nearly $1 billion in annual sales, and because the LCBO holds exclusive wholesale rights in Ontario, the ban extends to all retailers, bars, and restaurants in the province. Other provinces, including Nova Scotia, have taken similar actions.

Lawson Whiting, CEO of Brown-Forman (makers of Jack Daniel’s), condemned the Canadian response, calling it “worse than a tariff” because it completely eliminates sales. While acknowledging that Canada only accounts for 1% of Brown-Forman’s sales, Whiting expressed concern, particularly given similar tariff-related issues in Mexico, a larger market for the company.

Canadian leaders have reacted strongly to the escalating dispute. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau criticized the US tariffs as “a very dumb thing to do,” accusing President Trump of attempting to undermine the Canadian economy. Foreign Minister Melanie Joly expressed serious concern over Trump’s past comments about making Canada the 51st US state.

The dispute has also fueled a surge in Canadian nationalism, with consumers increasingly opting for domestically produced goods. The situation remains tense, highlighting the significant economic and political ramifications of the ongoing trade war.

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